Savory Sweet Sue Chicken Casserole Delight
Indulge in this comforting Savory Sweet Sue Chicken Casserole Delight, a perfect blend of juicy chicken, crunchy vegetables, and creamy sauce topped with crispy potato chips and cheddar cheese. This recipe transforms simple ingredients into a delightful dish that is ideal for family dinners or gatherings with friends. Serve it warm and watch as everyone goes back for seconds, creating cherished memories around the dinner table. Enjoy this dish that is not just tasty, but also incredibly easy to prepare, making it a weeknight favorite!
6
Servings
N/A
Calories
12
Ingredients
Ingredients
Premium chunk chicken (Sweet Sue)
2 envelopes (7 oz each) (drained)
Celery
1.5 cups (chopped)
Mayonnaise
1/3 cup (not needed)
Lemon juice
1 tablespoon (not needed)
Cream of chicken soup
1 can (10.5 oz) (not needed)
Onion
1/4 cup (chopped)
Pimiento
1/4 cup (drained and chopped)
Hard-boiled eggs
2 (chopped)
Slivered almonds or water chestnuts
1/3 cup (slivered almonds (2 oz pkg) or chopped water chestnuts)
Potato chips
1.75 cups (crushed)
Cheddar cheese
3/4 cup (grated)
Butter
as needed (for topping)
Instructions
1
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2
In a large mixing bowl, combine the drained Sweet Sue chicken, chopped celery, mayonnaise, lemon juice, cream of chicken soup, chopped onion, drained and chopped pimiento, chopped hard-boiled eggs, and slivered almonds or water chestnuts. Stir until all ingredients are well mixed.
3
Transfer the chicken mixture into a greased casserole dish, spreading it evenly.
4
In a separate bowl, combine the crushed potato chips and grated cheddar cheese. Sprinkle this mixture over the top of the chicken mixture in the casserole dish.
5
Dot the top with small pats of butter or margarine for extra flavor and crispiness.
6
Bake in the preheated oven for 25 minutes or until the casserole is heated through and the top is golden and bubbly.
7
Remove from the oven and let it cool slightly before serving. Enjoy!
Nutrition Information
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Savory Sweet Sue Chicken Casserole Delight?
It is a comforting casserole featuring chicken, celery, and a creamy sauce topped with crunchy potato chips and melted cheddar cheese.
What type of chicken does this recipe use?
The recipe specifically calls for two 7-ounce envelopes of Sweet Sue premium chunk chicken, drained.
Can I substitute fresh chicken for the canned envelopes?
Yes, you can use an equivalent amount of cooked, shredded, or diced fresh chicken breast.
How much celery should I chop for this dish?
The recipe requires 1.5 cups of chopped celery for a refreshing crunch.
Is there a substitute for mayonnaise in this recipe?
You can substitute mayonnaise with Greek yogurt or sour cream, though the flavor profile will be slightly tangier.
Why is lemon juice included in the ingredients?
Lemon juice provides a bright acidity that cuts through the richness of the cream soup and mayonnaise.
Can I use cream of mushroom soup instead of cream of chicken?
Yes, cream of mushroom, cream of celery, or even cream of onion soup can be used as a substitute.
How should the onion be prepared?
The onion should be finely chopped so that it distributes evenly throughout the chicken mixture.
What do pimientos add to the casserole?
Pimientos add a mild sweetness and a pop of red color to the dish.
Do I have to include hard-boiled eggs?
While traditional for this style of casserole, you can omit the hard-boiled eggs if they are not to your preference.
What can I use if I do not have slivered almonds?
Chopped water chestnuts are an excellent nut-free alternative that provides a similar crunchy texture.
What kind of potato chips are recommended for the topping?
Standard plain, salted potato chips work best, but ruffled chips can provide extra texture.
Can I use a different kind of cheese besides cheddar?
Yes, Monterey Jack, Colby, or a Mexican blend would all melt well on top of this casserole.
At what temperature should I preheat the oven?
The oven should be preheated to 350°F (175°C).
How long does the casserole take to bake?
It takes approximately 25 minutes or until the mixture is heated through and the top is golden and bubbly.
How many servings does this recipe yield?
This recipe is designed to yield approximately 6 servings.
Is this chicken casserole suitable for potlucks?
Yes, it is a crowd-pleaser and easy to transport, making it ideal for gatherings.
Can I prepare this dish ahead of time?
Yes, you can mix the chicken base ahead of time and store it in the fridge; just add the chip topping right before baking.
How should I store any leftovers?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 to 4 days.
Can this casserole be frozen for later?
Yes, but it is recommended to freeze the chicken mixture separately and add the potato chips fresh when you are ready to bake.
What is the purpose of adding butter on top?
Small pats of butter help the potato chips and cheese brown more evenly and add a rich flavor to the crust.
Can I add more vegetables like peas or carrots?
Absolutely, adding a half cup of frozen peas or diced carrots can increase the nutritional value and add more color.
Is this recipe spicy?
No, this is a savory and mild dish suitable for those who prefer non-spicy comfort food.
What size casserole dish is best?
A standard 2-quart casserole dish or a 9x9 inch baking pan works perfectly for these quantities.
Can I use Greek yogurt instead of mayonnaise?
Yes, using plain Greek yogurt is a popular way to reduce calories while maintaining a creamy texture.
Why do the potato chips need to be crushed?
Crushing the chips allows them to form a more consistent and easier-to-eat crust across the top of the dish.
Should I grease the casserole dish?
Yes, greasing the dish with butter or non-stick spray ensures the chicken mixture doesn't stick to the sides.
Can I use pecans instead of almonds?
Yes, chopped pecans or walnuts can be used, though they will provide a different flavor than almonds.
Is this recipe considered kid-friendly?
Yes, the combination of chicken, cheese, and potato chips is generally very popular with children.
How do I know when the casserole is finished cooking?
The casserole is done when the edges are bubbling and the cheese and chip topping have turned a light golden brown.